On the 12th of January 2024, a significant grant opened for communities and businesses in Ireland as applications began for the EU's ‘Just Transition Fund’ under the Local and Regional Economic Strategies Support Scheme: Community and Enterprise Grants. This initiative aims to support regions transitioning away from peat extraction, fostering economic diversification and employment generation. In this blog post, we will explore the eligibility criteria, application process, and how Ireland can strategically utilise this fund, focusing on advancing its electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure and how we at Fuuse, a leading EV management software company can help.
Eligibility and Coverage
The fund primarily targets areas heavily impacted by the transition from peat extraction, including counties such as Laois, Westmeath, Offaly, Longford, Roscommon, Galway, Tipperary, and Kildare.
Locations Covered by the Grant Source: Pobal
The fund is open to:
- Small to Medium Enterprises
- Mirco Enterprises
- Social Enterprises
- Community and Voluntary Organisations or Not-For-Profit Organisations
The definition of these can be found on the Applications Guidelines PDF
Key Dates
|
Components |
Dates |
|
Application Window Opens |
12 January 2024 |
|
Deadline for PAU Registration for new organisations |
2 February 2024 |
|
Application Launch and Information Clinic |
22 January 2024 |
|
Application Information Clinic |
6 February 2024 |
|
Application Information Clinic |
13 February 2024 |
|
Application Window Closes |
5pm, 22 February 2024 |
|
Notification of decision by Pobal |
Late April 2024 |
|
Project commencement |
June 2024 – 31 March 2026 |
Image Source: Pobal
Scope of Fund:
The grant covers various areas such as innovation in energy and resource efficiency, circular economy projects, training and upskilling, retrofit readiness, digitisation and connectivity, bioeconomy innovations, nature restoration, and renewable energy/heat networks. This broad scope allows for a range of sustainable projects to be funded, aligning with Ireland's commitment to green initiatives.
Application Process and Key Dates:
To seize this opportunity, organisations must move swiftly. The application process began on the 12th of January 2024 and will close at 5 pm on the 22nd of February 2024. However, the cut-off date for registering as a Primary Authorized User (PAU) is the 2nd of February 2024. All organisations must register on the MyPobal Portal, designating a PAU to manage the application process.
Applicants need to submit a detailed proposal outlining their intended use of the funding, emphasising the positive impact on local communities and economies. The grant, totalling €300,000, requires accurate cost projections supported by quotations from reputable suppliers.
For a comprehensive guide on the application process, refer to the POBAL website.
Strategic Utilisation of Funds for EV Infrastructure:
One innovative avenue for utilising the EU fund is to advance Ireland's EV infrastructure. Fuuse, a leading EV software company, could play a pivotal role in this endeavour. By partnering with Fuuse, organisations can leverage innovative technology to implement projects promoting electric mobility, charging infrastructure development, and smart energy solutions.
Fuuse's expertise in digitalisation, connectivity, and advanced manufacturing aligns with the fund's focus areas. Moreover, investing in EV infrastructure supports the broader goals of reducing carbon emissions, fostering a circular economy, and contributing to Ireland's commitment to sustainability.
Are you struggling to get your head around Scope 1 & 2 reporting requirements?
If the answer is yes, contact Luke below.
Our Irish General Manager Luke Buckley has been working with Businesses and Organisations to help them with their transition to EV as well as their reporting requirements under Scope 1 and 2 emissions.
Complete the form below to find out more:
